New Graduate Engineer, Automation

About the Role

SpaceX is developing a low latency, broadband internet system, Starlink, enabled by a constellation of low Earth orbit satellites. This role is located in Bastrop, TX, at a high-rate SpaceX manufacturing site. You will collaborate closely with Materials Engineering on processes, tools, and cells for producing flight and production hardware across programs.

We are hiring new graduates who enjoy working with a combination of electrical/software and mechanical systems. Examples include:

• High-rate factory automation – cells, robots, gantries, conveyors, and end-of-arm tooling
• PLC, HMI, and controls – organized, reusable code and screens for operator use and troubleshooting
• Machine safety – ANSI/RIA15.06/OSHA systems for robots, gantries, and other equipment
• Factory health – sensors, SCADA/Ignition, and monitoring systems
• Electrical, pneumatics, and motion – control panels, schematics, and checkout on equipment
• Greenfield projects – specifying new cells and equipment, owning commissioning and initial automation development

Key Responsibilities

• Own automation from concept through commissioning and high-volume production
• Design, program, and debug PLC and robot systems; measure rate, uptime, and capability
• Develop end-of-arm tooling, fixtures, and work instructions for operators
• Apply controls, electrical, and machine safety principles on equipment
• Partner with Materials Engineering to develop and test automation for advanced materials and manufacturing processes for next-generation hardware
• Troubleshoot cell and equipment problems on the floor and identify root causes
• Challenge assumptions and find simple solutions to complex problems

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering, physics, or computer science discipline
• 1+ years of experience with engineering projects (internship or extracurricular experience is applicable)
• Graduating in the class of 2026 or 2027

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Hands-on work with automation such as PLC, robots, and industrial equipment
• Solid understanding of industrial controls, sensors, and how automated cells fail (faults, e-stops, rate, scrap)
• Experience with CAD (NX or SolidWorks) and electrical or pneumatic schematics
• Experience commissioning equipment, implementing safety systems, or bringing a cell to rate
• Exposure to production machinery (robots, injection molders, die casters, CNC, motion systems)
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal)
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements

Additional Requirements

• Willingness to travel to other SpaceX sites and/or vendors (~15% travel normally, potentially more during urgent campaigns)
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs unassisted
• Standing/walking for long periods
• Willingness to work long hours and weekends as necessary